Serie A leaders AC Milan have brought in Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori to address their ongoing defensive issues.
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The 23-year-old joins on loan, with the Italian club retaining a £26.6m (€30m) option to make the transfer permanent.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has assured fans that Tomori remains integral to the club’s future. “This move is all about enhancing his personal development,” said Lampard. “He will return to us as a better player.”
Tomori, a Chelsea academy graduate, has struggled for game time this season, making just four appearances since Thiago Silva’s arrival.
However, he played a key role under Lampard last season, making 22 appearances and earning a spot in the England squad.
Lampard, who previously managed Tomori during a loan spell at Derby County, where the defender was named Player of the Year, emphasized his belief in the player’s potential.
“He was one of the best players in the Championship and remains part of our long-term plans.”
AC Milan, currently leading Serie A, are dealing with a defensive crisis ahead of their upcoming match against Atalanta at San Siro. The club sees Tomori as a vital addition to strengthen their backline.
Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol noted that some Chelsea fans are surprised by the move, given Tomori’s potential.
However, the Good Morning Transfers panel agreed Milan is an ideal environment for the young defender to grow.
Lampard concluded: “This loan is a chance for him to gain valuable experience and return stronger, benefiting both him and Chelsea.”
